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17161 ab 01 low res

Contemporary Homes

Arts & Crafts Restoration with Pool House

A seamless blend of contemporary design and heritage craftsmanship — this thoughtfully designed pool house and Arts & Crafts restoration enhances the character of the original dwelling and its surrounding landscaped gardens.

Perched on the bank of the adjacent River Thames, alongside a noteworthy arboraceous ait, poses a sizeable residential plot. Its eastern street frontage is entangled with considerable mature trees that act as a visual screen, whilst in contrast, its western-facing rear consists of delightful panoramic views overlooking the watery perimeter. The existing dwelling, primarily timber framed with a lower brick-faced and upper jettied facade construction, was built in 1910 in an expressed Arts & Crafts style. The property hosts an assortment of predominantly hipped and gable roofs finished with clay tiles, intricate brick chimneys and window detailing, including iron casements within oak frames. The site also possesses an external swimming pool and accompanying pool house.

The proposal aimed to evolve the dwelling's internal spaces to provide modern living by rearranging and enhancing comfort levels throughout, rectifying heat loss issues typical for buildings of this age and construction. Moreover, a lawful development certificate was achieved for a single-storey ancillary. The structure, notably two interconnected contemporary forms, is located south of the existing outdoor swimming pool, replacing the smaller pool house. Consequently, supplying more meaningful and ample space for games, living, exercise, changing, and plant/storage functions.

With a linear row of mature verdant trees acting as a backdrop, contemporary materials include vertical timber slats upon its rear form's faces and wrap-around full-height glazing that encompasses views back to its adorning neighbour and pool waters upon its front form's facades. Sliding glazing and pocket doors unite each space, connecting the internal amenity comforts to its exterior setting. A level threshold detailing was meticulously achieved to further express this vision. Moreover, a bespoke solar shading system traversing outwards was introduced to reduce heat gain and glare while enhancing indoor thermal comfort, privacy, and overall aesthetic. Seen as an elegant contrast yet exhibiting akin interior finishes of a soft nature to the traditional dwelling.

  • Tag Listed Building Tag Swimming Pool Tag Architecture Tag Interior Architecture
Project Details
Project Name Riverfold Retreat
Project Reference 17161
Photography © Andrew Beasley